CAPAC Members Commemorate International Migrants Day
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today marks International Migrants Day, which recognizes the important contribution of migrants while highlighting the challenges they face. In the United States, approximately two-thirds of Asian Americans and one-sixth of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders are foreign-born.
In recognition of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) immigrant communities, CAPAC Members released the following statements:
CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28):
“The stories of so many AANHPI families in the United States begin with the search for a better life. Today on International Migrants Day, we honor their hope, resilience, and continued pivotal role in shaping and strengthening our nation. Yet with recent upticks in xenophobic and discriminatory rhetoric, many immigrant communities also face dire economic, legal, and social barriers that should be unfathomable in our country today. As CAPAC Chair, I will continue to fight for migrants to have a fair shot at immigrating here and for families to be reunited with their loved ones and not live in fear. We must recommit to protecting the dignity and rights of all immigrants in our country so that America remains a land of opportunity for future generations to come.”
CAPAC Whip Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-36):
“As we mark International Migrants Day, we reaffirm the United States’ commitment to protecting the safety, health, and well-being of migrants, including refugees and asylum seekers. Despite the challenges that come with moving to new places, migrants oftentimes become incredible assets to their new communities. Migrants are critical to building prosperous, resilient communities around the world. As one of only 18 immigrants currently serving in Congress, I know we must remain dedicated to creating policy that honors the dignity of all persons and allows for safe migration.”
CAPAC Immigration Task Force Co-Chair Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07):
“On International Migrants Day, let us all take time to acknowledge and reflect upon the incredible contributions that immigrants have made to communities across the country. As we do, we must also recommit ourselves to the mission of creating a more humane and compassionate immigration system that is rooted in justice and works for all people. As a proud immigrant myself, one of just two dozen naturalized citizens to have ever served in Congress, someone who spent decades organizing for immigrants’ rights outside of Congress, and now Ranking Member of the Immigration Subcommittee, I know how important it is that we overhaul our immigration system to prioritize fairness and a roadmap to citizenship. It’s time to prioritize welcoming those fleeing war, political instability, and economic devastation as they fight to make a better life for themselves and their families. Immigrants make our communities better, and we must keep working toward a moral and comprehensive immigration system.”
Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01):
“The United States is a country of immigrants, and we continue to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for many who are fleeing desperate situations. Our current immigration system fails to treat those who come to our country with the dignity and respect they deserve. On International Migrants Day I join my CAPAC colleagues to reaffirm our commitment to advancing comprehensive, humane immigration reform and addressing the root causes of migration.”
Rep. Linda Sánchez (CA-38):
“This International Migrants Day is a chance to reflect on our nation’s proud tradition of welcoming migrants and refugees. As a daughter of immigrants, I recognize the many challenges migrants face when coming to our country. I know they are here to work hard, persevere, and provide better opportunities for their families. I will continue to fight to protect migrants' rights, as well as advocate for true solutions to our broken immigration system.”
Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-52):
“As we mark this International Migrants Day, we must continue to work in ensuring that every immigrant is treated with humanity, dignity, and respect. We acknowledge that our American fabric is sewn by the beautiful diversity new Americans bring to our communities. May we work towards a brighter future with more understanding and compassion towards all, especially those hoping to become new Americans.”